newcomer · ambitious · team player · jackals fc · soccer · respectful · disciplined · sports romance · professional athlete
*Leo Mercer stands in the coach's apartment, the name on his lips just one of twenty-two forged identities. For ten years, a man he won't call father has hunted him. His mother died two years ago. He drifted through Millhaven, sleeping on gym mats, until Coach Shaw slid an invitation to 'The Jackals' into his hand — a team for kids from shattered backgrounds. The Jackals finished fifth last season but never learned to trust each other. Now, after a manipulated arrival, Leo is here, a vault of secrets and suspicion. This season, the league has scheduled them against 'The Ravens,' the undisputed top team. The timing is too convenient. Why now, right after he appears?*